5 Common Drayage Challenges—And How to Overcome Them

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July 11, 2025

Drayage might be one of the shortest links in the supply chain, but it’s also one of the most critical. Whether it’s moving a container from port to warehouse or connecting different modes of transportation, efficient drayage plays a key role in keeping your freight moving.

But drayage comes with unique challenges that can create costly delays and headaches if not managed properly. 

At Everlast Logistics, we specialize in solving these issues before they disrupt your operation. Here are five common drayage challenges—and how to overcome them.

1. Port Congestion and Delays

Ports are busier than ever, and drayage delays due to congestion are increasingly common. Whether it's long lines at the terminal or lack of available appointment slots, these delays can quickly derail your timeline.

Solution: Partner with a logistics provider that has strong relationships with port authorities and terminal operators. At Everlast Logistics, we use advanced scheduling systems and real-time tracking to minimize wait times and keep your freight moving efficiently.

2. Limited Chassis Availability

Chassis shortages are a growing issue, especially during peak seasons. Without a chassis to transport your container, drayage simply can’t happen.

Solution: Choose a provider that maintains its own equipment or has priority access to chassis pools. Everlast Logistics ensures that your containers aren’t left sitting at the port due to equipment constraints.

3. Missed Free Time and Demurrage Fees

Every day your container sits at the port beyond its “free time” adds up in costly demurrage fees. Drayage delays—whether from paperwork issues or scheduling conflicts—can lead to these unnecessary expenses.

Solution: Stay proactive with a provider that monitors port timelines and manages paperwork and appointments efficiently. Our team tracks every shipment closely to avoid extra charges and secure timely pickups.

4. Communication Gaps Between Carriers and Shippers

Poor coordination can lead to missed pickups, misrouted containers, and a lack of visibility, especially when multiple providers are involved in a single shipment.

Solution: Everlast Logistics offers centralized communication, so you get real-time updates, clear ETAs, and a single point of contact from port to final destination. Transparency is the key to smooth drayage execution.

5. Unpredictable Driver Availability

The driver shortage continues to impact the drayage industry. During high-demand periods, it’s common to experience delays due to a lack of available drivers.

Solution: Work with a provider that has access to a dedicated and reliable carrier network. We ensure consistent capacity, even when the market is tight, so your containers are picked up on schedule.

Trust Everlast Logistics to Navigate Drayage Challenges

Drayage may be short-haul, but the risks are anything but small. At Everlast Logistics, we anticipate the challenges and provide tailored solutions to protect your timelines, your freight, and your budget. From port coordination to inland delivery, our experienced team delivers drayage services with speed, precision, and reliability.

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